Orthodontic System Anchoring Method and Apparatus

ABSTRACT

Orthodontic system anchoring method and custom apparatus affixed to teeth, TADs and/or tooth positioning and stabilization appliances and/or orthodontic auxiliaries. Each appliance has mechanical fasteners structured to secure segments of a curable flexible resin rope called a flex fit module (FFM). The FFM is moldable and adaptable to the oral cavity between mechanical fasteners in an uncured first mode where it is cut to length, positioned around the anatomy of the mouth and attached to clamps or fasteners at each end. Each fastener has a clamp attached to orthodontic auxiliaries, orthodontic appliances or onto a TAD for anchorage purposes. One end of this custom appliance is usually attached via a clamp manufactured as part of a bracket or band to a tooth. The other end is connected to an appliance, tad or auxiliary. Once connected together the system is cured and becomes a solid entity ready to accept orthodontic forces.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent applications is a continuation-in-part patent application of the patent application entitled “Orthodontic Appliance Anchoring Method and Apparatus”, Ser. No. 13/487,822 filed Jun. 4, 2012.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field

This invention pertains to orthodontic anchoring and appliance attachment systems. Specifically, it refers to an orthodontic anchoring and attachment method for teeth connected to orthodontic appliances. These are custom made appliances designed on demand by the orthodontist for the anchorage needs and/or appliance development during one visit at the orthodontist. These appliances are affixed to temporary anchorage devices (TADs) and/or teeth and/or orthodontic appliances. Each custom appliance has in common mechanical fasteners with one or multiple orthodontic auxiliaries and, at least one flexible fit module (FFM), which is a flexible curable resin rope. The mechanical fasteners can be fitted to all traditional orthodontic appliances/auxiliaries. Between any of these fasteners the FFM is placed to complete the appliance. This invention simplifies orthodontic mechanics used by the orthodontist for tooth movement and alignment creating never seen before appliances, which incorporate current orthodontic auxiliaries, and blend them into a new innovative system. Fasteners are placed on teeth, TADs or appliances. Then segments of the FFM are adapted around the anatomy of the mouth to join fasteners together. Once the appliance is designed, adapted and fitted to the patient, it is cured to become a rigid leverage point or points to withstand oral and orthodontic forces required to move teeth. Tooth movement is simplified and made more efficient while time is minimized and patient comfort is improved.

2. State of the Art

Orthodontics and Dento-facial Orthopedics deal in the treatment of malocclusion (improper bites), mal-alignment of teeth and manipulating jaws during growth or with surgical intervention to improve oral facial esthetics, function, and oral health. Comprehensive orthodontic treatment utilizes many intra-oral and extra-oral appliances to achieve corrective measures. Most commonly orthodontic brackets are bonded to teeth and metal wires are inserted into the orthodontic brackets (dental braces), which are made from various metals or a more aesthetic ceramic material. The wires are generally affixed with elastic or metal ligatures and interact with the brackets to move teeth into the desired positions. Orthodontic appliances have historically been connected via custom bent wires connected from the teeth to the auxiliaries and/or appliances through laboratory procedures.

Stainless steel arch-wires can be bent, shaped, and tightened to achieve desired results. Newer Nickel-titanium arch-wires and other temperature-sensitive materials are routinely used for this purpose, but do not require bending. When cold, the arch-wire is limp and flexible, easily threaded between brackets of most configurations. Once heated to body temperature, the arch-wire will stiffen and seek to return to its original shape. These arch-wires create constant light forces on the teeth. Brackets with hooks can be placed, or hooks can be added to the archwire to affix elastics to pull teeth into alignment. The placement and configuration of the elastics is determined by the required course of treatment of each patient. Each month or two, the braces will be adjusted and modified as needed. The orthodontist will remove the colored rubber ties keeping the wire in place or the wire may be replaced or modified and rubber ties replaced as individual ties or a continuous chain is used to close space. Tooth positioning appliances are defined as all traditional appliances used in orthodontics including but not limited to brackets, bands, tubes, cleats, buttons, wires, caps, rapid palatal expanders, nance appliances, space maintainers, trans-palatal arches, distalization appliances, dental orthopedic appliances, custom bent appliances or any other appliance commonly used it the practice of orthodontics.

Temporary attachment devices or TADs are used as anchored points to secure elastics, springs or wire modules bent for a specific purpose. These elastic or metal modules use a TAD, which is fixed to bone and not connected to teeth for anchorage. Teeth are poorer anchor points because teeth move in accordance with Newton's third law—for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. Thus when connected to large molars, smaller teeth are more likely to move further toward the molars. This creates a problem when a tooth is not to move. TADs have begun to solve this problem by adding anchorage to a tooth or groups of teeth allowing for biased orthodontic mechanics.

In additional to TADs and ancillary components orthodontics includes removable appliances, headgear, expansion appliances, fixed appliances and many other devices. These adjunctive appliances may be used to move teeth and jaw bones. Functional appliances, for example, are used in growing patients (age 7 to 14) to modify the jaw and their relationship. This therapy, termed Dento-facial Orthopedics, is followed by fixed multi-bracket therapy (see “full” //en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dental_braces (“braces”) to align the teeth and refine the occlusion (see //en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Occlusion (“dentistry”).

In many cases there is insufficient space in the dental arch for all the teeth to fit properly. There are two main procedures to rectify this problem. One is extraction: teeth are removed to create space. The second is expansion: the maxillary arch or upper jaw is made larger by using a palatal expander. The palatal expanders are secured to teeth to direct the expansion along the suture that separates both halves of the upper jaw. This is the suture that opens and subsequently fills in with new bone when a rapid palatal expander is used.

A number of devices are employed with round steel wires attached to fitted bands around teeth to direct forces and move teeth to correct a patient's bite. For example, Cope, U.S. Pat. No. 7,717,707 issued May 18, 2010 discloses an Orthodontic trans-palatal intrusion arch assembly secured with TADs to close open bites. It employs a number of trans-palatal arch wires connected to molar bands and TADs to direct forces along desired segments of the mouth. These wires are custom bent and formed to the patient and do not necessarily form a perfect fit. Consequently, additional welding and adjustment and/or lab work are required, resulting in multiple fitting visits. Cinader, Jr., U.S. Pat. No. 7,774,084 issued Aug. 10, 2010 creates a method by which implants can be placed more accurately using a template created with the aid of computers. The doctor can place TADs or other types of implants more accurately with this template technology device.

Conventional appliances must be welded and bent to fit the anatomy of the oral cavity. This requires: 1) fitting bands or brackets in the office and taking impressions of the teeth, 2) placing the fitted bands/brackets into the impression and 3) sending it to a lab for custom bending of steel wires, soldering of the wires to connect component of the appliance and/or making acrylic components of the appliance. After the laboratory production is completed the patient is brought back in to the orthodontic office where final bending adjustments are made to the appliance by the orthodontist. Typically these appliances contain brackets or bands fitted with hooks and bars welded in place from teeth to TADs or other appliances. These can be affixed to the arch-wire, bracket or TADs to secure to elastics, springs etc. to move teeth into alignment. This can result in ill-fitting jerry rigged devices, which can be uncomfortable for the patient and not ideal for the orthodontist.

The custom device and method described below avoids these problems by providing an easily fitted FFM connected to an anchoring system associated with TADs and/or appliances to the tooth/teeth. This FFM replaces the stainless steel wire and connects the different components of the appliance, and allows for immediate placement of an efficient, comfortable appliance with no lab work or impression requirements. This invention creates a new category of appliances to simplify orthodontic mechanics used to align teeth without welds, bending of wires, or multiple fitting visits. It thus alters current orthodontic practices, saves time, impressions and is beneficial to the patient and the Orthodontist.

OBJECTIVES

Some of the objectives of the present invention are to:

1) Create a new system to attach to and utilize temporary anchorage devices TADs for anchorage and revolutionize the attachment of traditional orthodontic appliances to teeth.

2) Simplify and generate efficiencies to orthodontic mechanics by allowing up righting and space closure of tipped molars by placing a bracket suspended in space and fixed to a TAD where the orthodontist would have the bracket if the tooth were ideally placed. This invention assists the orthodontist with many difficult orthodontic procedures including but not limited to: canted occlusion, impacted or un-erupted teeth, intrusion, extrusion, expansion, space closure or opening, and fixed stabilization of a tooth or teeth when movement is not wanted and additional anchorage is required.

3) Decrease treatment time and patient compliance requirements by improving the use of TADS which are screws inserted into the bone between the teeth for increased anchorage or to create points of fixed anchorage which can be manipulated to the advantage of the Orthodontist to move teeth.

4) Enhance utilization of traditional appliances by changing the way the appliance are fit and connected together using one or more flex fit modules (FFM), which are flexible curable resin ropes and clamps attached to traditional bands, brackets, appliances, TADs etc. These clamps and FFM are connected together providing a platform by which the orthodontist can adjust auxiliaries from TADS and/or appliances to the current brackets and systems to bias the orthodontic mechanics for the benefit of the patient and orthodontist.

5) Employ TADs used in conjunction with traditional brackets, wires, invisible removable aligners, and appliances to move teeth into the desired alignment by creating a new category of appliance or attachment apparatus.

6) Remove the requirement of impressions, lab work, utilization of preformed or custom bent wire used to connect appliance parts, and aftermarket soldering currently required to make and properly place orthodontic appliances. The FFM works in conjunction with or can entirely replace the wire or wires used to connect components of orthodontic appliances.

Specifically, this invention provides attachment devices from the TAD to a tooth or teeth either directly or indirectly. It also provides the ability to attach from a TAD to a free-floating point in space cantilevered to where the tooth is desired to arrive. This invention is used to create desired movement, or to stop undesired movement by being placed mesial or distal (in-front or behind) of a bracket and then being activated by traditional orthodontic mechanics to move teeth, thus avoiding undesired movement of anchored teeth. Between these new attachment devices a new flex fit module (FFM) is utilized to adapt to the anatomy of the oral cavity and provide a perfect fitting appliance in one visit with no lab work.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention comprises orthodontic TAD attachment devices, tooth attachment devices, and orthodontic appliance attachment devices, all connected to a tooth or teeth (via brackets/bands/orthodontic hardware/orthodontic appliances). The attachment is made using a clamp which connects to a Flex Fit Module (FFM) (curable flexible resin rope) at one end, which is then shaped to the patient's oral anatomy and fastened to another auxiliary clamp to attach to a tooth, appliance, TAD or be set to a point in space toward which the tooth will be moved. The FFM replaces the wire traditionally used to connect components of orthodontic appliances from tad to tooth to appliance in any combination. TAD, tooth, and appliance connections are custom designed and can be formulated in any order and number of attachments (connected to TAD, tooth, appliance) in any configuration to any part the oral cavity.

As used herein, the term “flex fit module (FFM) or resin rope” is a component of this orthodontic system allowing for the connectivity from tooth to orthodontic appliance or from one component of this system to another component of this orthodontic system which connects to any traditional orthodontic bracket, band, appliance or system. One example would be from a temporary anchorage device to an orthodontic auxiliary such as a tube, band, hook, button or bonded or non-bonded attachment which interfaces with a tooth to hold it in place or cause it to move. Another example is the connection between a band on a tooth and a nance, rapid palatal expander, space maintainer, holding arch or any other orthodontic device.

As used herein, the term “flexible structural component” is a structure used to alter the handling of the pre-cured resin rope (FFM) or the strength of the pre-cured or post cured resin rope. The flexible structural component is one component of an FFM and may not be required in all FFM resin ropes. The flexible structural component of an FFM may be a solid wire or a hollow tube of any diameter or shape to accomplish handling and strength requirements of a particular orthodontic use. It also may or may not be used to contain resins, components of resin their fillers or fibers. This structural component may be more flexible or less flexible dependent upon required usage and loads required for any given orthodontic purpose. The flexible resin component is therefore made from any material that fits the required force load and handling requirements. A partial list of these materials includes steel, stainless steel, surgical steel, nickel, aluminum, copper, tin, lead, iron, tungsten, magnesium titanium or any amalgamation of the above with additives to create proper strength and handling properties. These materials may also be treated by annealing, hardening or softening with heat or additives. Other materials that are used for flexible structural components include plastics, fibers, woven fibers, carbon fibers, metal fibers, cloth fibers, resin impregnated fibers or filaments which could be made into such a flexible structural component. These materials can be cut or made from additive manufacturing (3D printing) as required to produce said structure. These materials of metal of any variety or other materials can be porous, etched, scored, cut, perforated, laser cut with a symmetrical or asymmetrical grooves, lines, matrix patterns of any varied shape and may have any shape or cross sections along entire rope or at different portions of any given rope. The flexible curable component may encase internal elements or be imbedded a given rope. It can be of any cross-section and of different diameters. It may or not be flexible at parts and ridged at other parts or ends to accomplish attachment connections to other parts of this orthodontic system. The fasteners by which pieces are connected to teeth, directly to soft tissue, orthodontic appliances, other components or orthodontic auxiliaries may be accomplished as one piece with the flexible structural component at any ends or at any point or points along the resin rope (FFM). It can be solid at any point along said rope to accommodate fixtures, collars, clips, fasteners or for orthodontic uses or connectivity. It may or may not be cut, scored, perforated, symmetrically or asymmetrically to alter the direction the rope is likely to flex before and during placement or is likely to receive forces after placement and curing. The encasing or embedded structural component may be matrix or stent like lattice ma be in or around a curable resin forming a reinforced matrix rope when cured.

As used herein the term “fastener” is any connecting device which attaches any FFM to any other traditional orthodontic hardware, orthodontic appliances, orthodontic auxiliaries, flex fit wafers (FFW), to other FFM(s), or parts of this orthodontic system. Said fasteners which are also referred to as attachment devices connect one piece of orthodontic appliances/hardware/systems to another with a physical attachment such as a clamp, clip, hook, collar, wire lock, insert, chemically adhered junction, resin adhered junction, snap, weld, channel and groove, pin and lock, wire tie, insert clip or ball, cleat attachment, linkage, flexible junction, collar and sleeve, ball and joint, groove and snap, male and female inserts, friction junction with one way lock, friction junction with two way lock, or any mechanical unit which connects parts of this orthodontic system.

As used herein the term “component” refers to different parts of the orthodontic system. A partial list of components include various different flex fit modules (FFM's) or flexible curable ropes, fasteners, orthodontic appliances, temporary anchorage devices, hard tissue bone attachment plates, magnets, vibration devices, tissue penetrating orthodontic visible or non-visible lights, braces, extra-oral or intraoral orthodontic apparatus's, removable alignment devices, retainers, Bite correcting appliances, tooth holding appliances, teeth moving appliances, Orthodontic auxiliaries and Flex fit wafers which connect to other components of this system for orthodontic purposes.

As used herein the term “ flex fit wafer ” is a soft tissue interface which is connected to an FFM or orthodontic appliance which allows the direct contact with the soft tissues of the oral cavity such as a nance appliance which would be connected to one or more FFM(s) then connected to a bands or brackets on required teeth.

As used herein an orthodontic auxiliary is any linkage or connecting apparatus which can hold or activate orthodontic movement and the term of orthodontic appliance is one or more auxiliaries combined to create an appliance. The following is a group of orthodontic appliances and auxiliaries and not meant to be a complete list: a temporary anchorage device (TAD), bone plates, orthodontic hardware, removable orthodontic appliances, tooth holding appliances, fixed orthodontic appliances, space maintenance appliances, orthodontic braces, ligatures, clear removable aligners, a second FFM, a flex fit wafer, band(s), bracket(s), custom milled or additively manufactured brackets or bands, mesh pads, tubes, wires, orthodontic auxiliaries, hooks, buttons, elastics, elastomerics, inter-oral or extra-oral orthodontic appliances, active tooth positioning orthodontic appliance(s), magnets, visible and non visible light emitting appliances, vibration devices, appliances which deliver an electrical current(s) into the oral structures.

As used herein the term anchorage element is any appliance or auxiliary which has a fastener or fasteners attached or embedded or incorporated onto or fabricated within or welded to said appliance or auxiliary.

This invention is functionally efficient, and comfortably attached to one, two or multiple teeth and/or TAD and/or appliance by a clamp designed for that specific use. The invention also modifies current appliances by adding clamps to them. These clamps are then fitted with FFM's, which are shaped and connect to teeth, which are also fitted with clamps. The apparatus can attach to the orthodontic appliance via the arch-wire, which may pass through a tube (round or rectangular) that is part of the clamp. This tube is fitted to the mechanical fastener (clamp), which provides immovable stop to hold teeth in a particular position within the dental arch.

The connectivity from teeth to TADs or appliances using cut to length, flexible curable resin ropes (FFM) has not heretofore been employed. Adaptations of this appliance are fit and molded to the patient's oral anatomy and cured via heat, time, chemical or light curing, which fixes the apparatus between all its various custom attachments in place creating a newly place fixed custom appliance. The invention allows for a simple more precise use of forces on braces, arch-wires, and teeth or the appliances used to align teeth. Thus, this new anchoring appliance provides vectors with fewer unwanted side affects to align teeth using braces, arch-wires, and orthodontic appliances. The orthodontist can design biasing pressure as needed to obtain selective movement of teeth.

Specifically, the invention comprises at least one FFM curable flexible resin rope of varied diameters and length secured by TADs, teeth (via bands or brackets) and/or appliances, each having mechanical fasteners structured to secure segments of the flexible resin rope to its end use attachment. The FFM resin rope in a first mode is flexible and of a length to be positioned and adapted within the mouth along desired segments of the teeth, gums, palate and buccal and lingual portions of the oral cavity in both the mandible and maxilla. The resin rope is then attached to another clamp to anchor, attach, or connect to a desired structure, (i.e. TAD, tooth or appliance) in the oral cavity with the purpose alignment of the human dentition. In a second mode after being placed in the desired position, the resin rope is cured and hardened with light, heat, or chemicals to rigidly hold its position during the application of the biasing pressure to the teeth (orthodontic force). This provides exact placement of desired anchorage points to teeth, TADs, appliances or points in space for the orthodontist to create desired vectors on teeth. Pulling, pushing, erupting, intruding, rotating, torque, tipping and bodily movement of teeth using braces, arch-wires, TADs and tooth straightening appliances move the teeth more efficiently using forces biased based on the needs of the individual patient.

Orthodontic appliances are currently fabricated of stainless steel components, i.e. screws, pistons with springs, or wire custom bent or pre-formed to serve a function. They are then welded to bands or brackets. This invention can be connected to all of these devices without wires or bending to connect them. This is a one-visit appliance fit utilizing the Flex Fit Module (FFM) and clamps at both ends of orthodontic device now connected without custom bent wires.

In one embodiment, the mechanical fasteners are hinged with curved locking jaws structured to secure to segments of flexible resin ropes. This can be repeated with unlimited numbers of locking jaws (clamps) used along any portion of the resin rope. Any attachment can be designed in conjunction with these clamps to serve any anchorage issue in orthodontics. The diameter of the closed clamp is smaller than the resin rope to create a mechanical lock. This mechanical lock can be achieved with teeth or protruding wedges which bites/penetrates into the FFM tube and/or resin creating a lock from the clamp to the FFM. There are cut outs or windows in the clamp to ensure the flexible rope is cured properly. The windows also serve as mechanical locks because some of the FFM flexible tube or resin protrudes into the cut outs or windows and extends past the clamp and around its borders to mechanically lock it in place as it is closed. Using these principles the ropes/FFM and jaws/clips can have any required diameters to meet the force required by a specific anchorage issue or a particular appliance to be fitted with this system.

In another embodiment, the TAD is inserted into the bone with its head protruding out of the tissue. A cap that fits over the head of the TAD is fitted with a clamp (one piece), which accepts the FFM and is placed on the TAD. A bracket or band also fitted with a clamp is bonded to a tooth. The FFM is cut to length and shaped around the anatomy of the mouth from clamp to clamp. The jaws of the clamps are closed and the FFM between the clamp on the tooth and the clamp fixed to the TAD are cured. After curing the device becomes a solid system anchoring the tooth with the TAD. This system can be repeated using any appliance used in orthodontics, which is fitted with a clamp to any tooth fitted with a band or bracket fitted with at clamp. It is also possible to attach between these two ends another fastener/clamp fitted with any auxiliary such as hook or bracket to the FFM for orthodontic use.

Mechanical locking devices or clamps or clips can be configured as closing jaws or snap fit covers where two separate pieces snap together to form the clamp with teeth to bite into the resin rope and fix the FFM mechanically in place. (as seen in cross section of expansion screw shown in FIG. 4b )

At least one curable flexible resin rope has segments secured by the mechanical locking devices in a first mode where the rope is flexible for positioning within the mouth and contoured around the anatomy of the oral cavity of the patient. Various auxiliaries can be positioned around the mouth and in conjunction with traditional orthodontic appliances to created beneficial placement to aide in the alignment of teeth and to modify growth of the jaws, when appropriate. Once in position the custom appliance including the curable resin rope (FFM) and its fasteners are cured into one piece and hardened with light, heat, or chemicals to rigidly hold its position. Biasing pressure is then employed to prevent some teeth from moving while encouraging movement of other teeth using a TAD or Multiple TADs for anchorage.

One embodiment of a mechanical locking device has hinged jaws with teeth that interlock when closed to secure around a desired segment of the flexible resin rope. The hinged jaws include at least one opening through which a portion of the resin rope protrudes into when the jaws are closed to prevent the rope from slipping, when hardened. The diameter of the FFM is larger than the jaws when closed. In another variation the locking jaws can be of the same diameter of the FFM, if the inner parts of the jaws are structured to provide retention through a mesh pad system to lock the resin in place when cured.

The mechanical locking device may include an orthodontic tube or central channel structured to allow an arch-wire to slide through. It may also be fitted with a bracket, cleat, or hook to which springs or elastics may be affixed to apply vector pressure. In another variation, the central channel of a slide is rectangular in shape to secure to the arch-wire to prevent its twisting; thus providing rotational force to the tooth positioning appliance and affixed tooth when the arch-wire twists. The auxiliary device is manipulated via wire bending to place the auxiliary at a point in space, which is beneficial to orthodontic movement with the removable wire temporarily fitted into a tube or bracket before the FFM is cured. The FFM is fitted to the fastener and is held in place temporarily by said wire. When the FFM is attached to the fastener is cured, the wire is removed for the auxiliary to accept activation.

An orthodontic space maintainer or a TAD(s) may be connected to an arch-wire where an FFM is adapted around tissues and orthodontic hardware to allow the tube or bracket to be placed on an orthodontic arch-wire via a central channel (tube), which allows the orthodontic bracket or tube to slide and be placed at any position along said arch-wire. After curing of the FFM, the tube or bracket becomes locked in place and a hook or cleat secured to the sliding attachment can be connected to or by other auxiliaries such as springs and elastomerics for application of orthodontic biasing forces delivered to another tooth or teeth.

One embodiment of the tooth positioning appliances comprises teeth (banded) with hinged jaws to interlock when closed to secure around a desired segment of the flexible resin rope (FFM). The mechanical jaws when shut are of a smaller diameter than the FFM and because windows are cut into the jaws of the mechanical fasteners to allow the uncured FFM to be expressed or protrude through window when jaws are closed. Once cured the mechanical junction is complete.

A cleat, hook or bracket may be affixed to the hinged jaws to provide another anchoring point for the orthodontist to attach springs, wires or elastic components as needed to complete a custom appliance.

In another embodiment, the mechanical locking device comprises hinged jaws with teeth, grooves, dimples, channels affixed and interlocking together (both male and female portions of clamp) when closed to snap and clip together to hold clamp shut and secure around a desired segment of the flexible resin rope FFM. The teeth or grooves inside the clamp are different and used to bite into the FFM itself to lock the FFM in place.

In another embodiment, the orthodontic anchoring apparatus includes at least four Flex fit modules FFMs affixed with a clipping clamp to an expansion screw in the palate of the mouth. The opposing teeth on each side of the maxillary arch (two teeth on each side of the arch) of the mouth are fitted with brackets with mechanical locking devices (clamps). After the four FFMs are locked into place via the clamps, formed and cured the arch is ready for expansion.

To secure rapid palatal expanders, curable FFM flexible resin rope segments with first ends secured by the mechanical locking devices or jaws attached to the teeth at one end and to the expander at the second ends. The FFM's in the first mode are flexible and positioned around the anatomy of the mouth to attach both ends of the FFM. Once in position the FFM's are cured and hardened with light, heat, or chemicals to rigidly hold its position to make the appliance solid during tooth/jaw movement. The FFM rope segments, now cured, rigidly fix in position the rapid palatal expander so that its separation structure (screw), when activated, applies lateral separation pressure to the teeth to widen the palatal suture of the roof of the mouth. This invention allows expanders to be placed to either a TAD, a tooth, or both using clamps fit to the expander.

The flexible resin ropes/flex fit modules (FFM) are made of light, heat, or chemically curable resins which can be mixed with fillers or fibers to form a composite material. The curable resin can include but is not limited to epoxies, acrylates, cyanoacrylates, silicones, polyurethanes, or polyureas. It is preferred that the curable resin be activated by light and be based on acrylate resins with a photoinitiator that is activated by either UV or visible light. The acrylate material could be a combination of di-functional and tri-functional resins and are most commonly composed of bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate (Bis-GMA) monomers or Bis-GMA analogs. Other functional acrylates can be added as reactive diluents to achieve certain physical properties such as flow-ability for ease of handling. As with other composite materials used for dental composite fillings, the preferred resins typically consist of an oligomer acrylates, such as a (Bis-GMA) or urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA), a reactive diluent, and a filler. Oligomer Bis-GMA analogs can vary with the addition of polyethylene glycol (PEG) monomers incorporated into the molecule. Urethane methacrylate oligomers can also be used with both di- and tri-functionality with or without PEG constituents. Reactive diluents include triethleneglycol methacrylate (TEG), low molecular weight trimethacrylates or other PEG based methacrylates. The compositions vary widely, with proprietary mixes of resins forming the matrix, as well as engineered filler materials depending upon the composite properties required. The FFM can be made with or without a flexible rubber/plastic tube of varied thickness which encases the resin material and allows for better working properties. This can also be described as a resin filled tube which is flexible. The tube wrapping the resin can be configured with varied widths and different materials and varied chemical/molecular makeup to adjust its properties.

Filler materials can be based on organic or inorganic materials. Examples of organic fillers can be nanometer or micrometer size particles of polymers based on polystyrene, nylon, or others. Examples of inorganic fillers can be nanometer or micrometer size particles based on silica, alumina, or other inorganic metal oxides or ceramics. Filler materials are used to adjust key properties of the resins such as mechanical properties and viscosity. Nanomaterials can also be used as fillers, such as carbon nanotubes or nanowires based on metals or metal oxides. A coupling agent such as silane may be used to enhance the bond between the components. Fiber materials can also be added to enhance the mechanical properties of the resin composite. Fiber materials can be made from carbon, glass (silica or other inorganic oxide), polyester, polypropylene, or other polymers and act as reinforcing rods to improve the overall stiffness and strength of the composite before and after curing.

In the preferred embodiment of the FFM, a photo initiator is used to cure the composite material that decomposes into free radicals when exposed to light to initiate the polymerization reaction. Photo initiators that decompose under visible light (wavelengths between 400-700 nm) are typically used in dental composites. Examples of photoinitiators include but are not limited to camphorquinone (CQ), phenylpropanedione (PPD) or trimethylbenzoyl-diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO). A catalyst or co-initiator may be included to control its speed. Co-initiators are typically tertiary amines such as ethyl 4-dimethylaminobenzoate.

The orthodontic anchoring device thus provides an improved easily fitted resin rope FFM which can be adapted anywhere a metal wire was historically bent and shaped for appliances such as but not limited to space-maintainers, rapid palatal expanders, trans-palatal arches, labial bows on retainers, anchoring systems associated with TADs and tooth positioning appliances. Forces can be directed through the FFM and vector can be individualized for better alignment of teeth. No lab work, custom bent wires, or multiple fitting visits are required.

The hinging jaws or clamps are just one iteration of other clamps, which will utilize the same overlying technologies and principles but may be different in their design, size, materials or mechanical workings. The hinging jaws or clamps may connect to a fastener or any connecting device or mechanism which allows for a physical, mechanical or chemical connection between any orthodontic device, equipment or one or more FFM(s) for orthodontic purposes. Likewise the Flex fit module or FFM including its resin makeup and it's tube or wrap requirements may be designed to fulfill the same function but can be designed with different shapes, thicknesses and materials but used for the same uses described here within.

For example, the invention may be adapted for use with invisalign type appliances. This requires a tooth anchoring structure designed to fit flat onto the lingual or buccal surface of a tooth/teeth via a bracket/band, which follows the profile of the of the anatomy of the tooth tightly as to enable the placement of a plastic invisible removable aligner or retainer over the combined tooth and band/bracket structure. The attachment maintains a thin, low profile tooth attachment bracket/band and continues apically, exiting the invisalign appliance and extends around the anatomy of the soft and hard tissues of the palate buccal/lingual mucosa on either/both the maxilla or mandible. It extends past the border of the overlaid plastic invisible removable aligner so as to be unencumbered by said aligner. At which point, a mechanical clamp accepts the first end of the FFM. Then the second end of the FFM is attached to at least one TAD with a mechanical fastener fitted with an attachment for the TAD (TAD cap). This attachment attached to the tooth has a removable cap placed over the clamps for smooth impression release and/or scanning of the teeth when the attachment is placed on teeth before an impression/scan is taken for fabrication of the appliance. This invisalign orthodontic appliance variation provides anchorage for the tooth/teeth during treatment with invisible removable clear plastic appliances and will allow for biasing forces with the use of invisible removable appliances.

In another embodiment, the tooth anchoring structure is designed to fit flat onto the lingual or buccal surface of a tooth/teeth via a bracket/band, which follows the profile of the anatomy of the tooth so as to not inhibit the placement of a plastic invisible removable aligner or retainer over the combined tooth and band/bracket structure.

This variation may be adapted with an FFM with first and second ends. An attachment with a removable cap, which maintains a thin, low profile and continues apically around the anatomy of the soft and hard tissues of the palate buccal/lingual mucosa on either/both the maxilla or mandible is included to extend past a border of the overlaid plastic invisible removable aligner leaving an unencumbered segment. The aligner is cut to allow placement in a low, thin profile with small lingual/buccal or in and out profiles, which extend below the level of the gingival margins. Beyond the boundaries of the aligner are placed FFM(s) to hold a tooth or teeth in place and assist in orthodontic anchorage of attached teeth. Where the bracket attachment and the FFM continue, allows placement of the plastic invisible removable aligner/retainer. A mechanical clamp is affixed to the unencumbered segment to accept the first end of the FFM attached to at least one TAD. The second end of the FFM has a mechanical fastener fitted with an attachment for the TAD structured so that the removable cap covers the clamps and the attachment provides a smooth impression for scanning before impressions or scans are taken.

These orthodontic anchoring apparatus with tooth anchoring structures, clamps, fasteners and appliances are made of metal or metal amalgamations/alloys components via mold injection or milling or casting techniques, which may or may not include stainless steel, molybdenum copper, tin, nickel, silver, gold, titanium, aluminum, and other similar materials.

The FFM curable flexible rope may be a resin filled tube. The resin within the tube can be chemically adjusted to achieve different physical characteristics including slump, firmness, wetness, malleability, flexibility, strength, hardness, flowability, curability properties and other relevant properties. The tube surrounding or encasing this resin also can be similarly modified by altering materials or width of tube to change its physical properties for the mechanical clamping or biting into via clamp requirements, and also those other properties mentioned above for the resin.

In still another embodiment, the FFM includes a flexible moldable skeleton allowing for manipulation, molding, contouring, and adding strength to the FFM to temporarily hold in a molded position in a first mode until cured in a second mode. The FFM flexible moldable skeleton may comprise and endoskeleton embedded in the matrix, or a bendable semi-rigid mesh or lattice like exoskeleton encasing the curable resin material. The semi-rigid mesh or lattice like exoskeleton defines spaces which allow light to penetrate for curing the curable resin material.

The flexible structural component can be made to have no perforations and thus can be solid segment or a non-perforated section of the rope with the same shape or flat or any shape to accommodate a physical, mechanical, or chemical fastener of any type at any given point along an FFM or at any of its end(s) to accommodate fasteners such as collars, clips, clamps, friction attachments, ball and socket, channel and groove, ligature, nut and bolt, screw to surface, male into female sliding receiver with or without grooves, or any other mechanical, physical or chemical fastener(s) used for orthodontic appliances and their connectivity to an FFM.

The FFM is manipulated to fit around the oral structures and is attached to a fastener attached to a tooth fitted with a bracket, custom milled bracket, or band bonded to said tooth to secure second ends of the FFM to the tooth. After curing the FFM the tooth is connected to a TAD fixed into the bone. This tooth can now be an anchor to move other teeth using traditional orthodontic hardware which is attached on another side of a tooth. This same arrangement can be accomplished by FFM being attached at its second end to a fastener which is not connected to a bracket or band, but is connected to a rectangular or round molar tube or bracket fitted with a fastener to connect the tube or bracket to an arch-wire. It is slid adjacent to and in contact with a traditional bracket affixed to a tooth using traditional methods, but once the FFM and bracket are placed in contact and cured, the traditionally placed bracket or tube is held from moving along the arch-wire. Movement is stopped because the FFM attached tube prevents its sliding on the arch-wire in one direction and thus the tooth is held fixed to accomplish the same goals as were previously described.

The clamps mechanically or chemically bond or attach to the FFM when closed. Mechanical clamps physically attach to the FFM via teeth/protuberances/mesh, which clamp into and bite the tube and/or resin components of the FFM. Chemical clamps may bond to the FFM using teeth/protuberances/mesh attached to the clamp to create a physical pressure bonding attachment. The FFM may also interlock through a hole, window or end of clamp, when it is closed, as it will be expressed forcefully when clamp is closed and the FFM will be express through window/hole or end of clamp.

The orthodontic system modifies current orthodontic appliances to allow for custom insertion then adaption around hard and soft tissues of the oral cavity by changing in part or entirely the wires which have been traditionally used in orthodontics with various sized and shaped, including some or all of various components of the this systems flex fit modules or FFM(s). Also this system replaces the traditionally acrylic plastic portions of appliances or the tissue contacting portions of appliances with flex fit wafers which are flexible and light curable and accept FFM(s) to integrate into this orthodontic system. These modified appliances are used for any or all orthodontic purposes within the oral cavity and can be attached to oral structures or to lay upon oral structures and can replace any commonly used orthodontic traditional appliance such as an rapid palatal expander, unilateral/bilateral space maintainer, Nance holding appliance, functional appliances, intra-arch or inter-arch orthodontic appliances, fixed or removable orthodontic appliances, removable clear aligners, retainers, bite openers, occlusal coverage appliances, intraoral or extra oral appliances, molar distalization appliances, expansion appliances, bite modifying appliances. Or they can be used in conjunction with traditional bracket system such as clear or metal brackets, removable clear appliances, custom fabricated and designed orthodontic systems or simply used to introduce an orthodontic auxiliary or auxiliaries to existing traditional systems such as a cleat, hook, button clamps, fasteners, spring, piston, elastomerics, open or closed coil, bracket, tube, sliding or stopped arch-wire connection device, screw, lock, bolt and nut, stop, ligature, retraction device, power chain, TAD, head gear, traction device, visible light emitting device, vibration apparatus, or any other auxiliary, which is connected to this system using one or more of its components for orthodontic or orthodontic orthopedic purposes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The patent application file contains at least one drawing executed in color. Copies of this patent or patent application publication with color drawing(s) will be provided by the Patent Office upon request and payment of the necessary fee.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the invention with a double TAD mounted along the gum line above the teeth.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention mounted along the palate of the mouth.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention mounted along the palate of the mouth.

FIG. 4 is another embodiment of the invention mounted to a palatal expander mounted to the upper arch of the maxilla.

FIG. 4a is a cross section of the embodiment of the (RPE) palatal expander screw with FFM notches built into appliance of FIG. 4.

FIG. 4b is a perspective view of an RPE palatal expander screw cap that secures top potion of FFM when snapped in place over screw to secure FFM segments.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a mechanical locking device clamp or jaws.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another mechanical locking device.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a mechanical locking device affixed to a temporary anchoring device.

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of another embodiment of a mechanical locking device.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a mechanical locking device affixed to a band fitted to a tooth.

FIG. 10 is a bottom view of a mechanical locking device with a lingual bracket.

FIG. 11 is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 10.

FIG. 11 a is a view of a clamp with locking teeth, which bite into FFM.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an uncured FFM/Flexible curable rope or Flex fit module

FIG. 13 is another perspective view of a randomly shaped and cured FFM of FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a bracket attached to a clamp for use with removable invisible aligners.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a composite flexible curable resin rope 18.

FIG. 16 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 15.

FIG. 16a is a top view of the cap of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is a cut-away view of the embodiment of FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 shows the location of cross section AA of the curable resin rope 18 shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 19 is a cross section AA showing the fibers impregnated within a curable resin, the encapsulation component and the ring.

FIG. 20 illustrates two composite flexible curable resin ropes of FIG. 15 affixed to various orthodontic appliances and components.

FIG. 21 is an expanded view of the construct of FIG. 20.

DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS

Examples of the present invention are illustrated in the following figures. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the invention 10 mounted along the gum line above the teeth. A temporary anchoring device (TAD) 12 better shown in FIG. 7 with a mechanical locking device or clamp 14 attached to its head 16 is positioned between the teeth to the bone to provide a fixed anchoring point. One end 18 a of a flexible curable resin rope 18 is secured by the mechanical locking device or clamp 14 of the TAD 12. The other end 18 b is secured to a mechanical locking device 20 affixed to a tube clip 22, which accepts an archwire 24, and slides along the arch-wire 24 secured by braces 26. This appliance 10 is attached to a TAD above the teeth and to an orthodontic tube 22 with the arch-wire 24 passing through the tube 22. This use may require two separate TADs 12 to prevent rotation of an appliance as shown in FIG. 1.

A cleat 28 shown in more detail in FIGS. 5 and 6 is attached to the mechanical locking device or clamp 20 to provide an anchoring point for elastic (not shown). Thus positioned, the resin rope 18 is cured with light, heat, chemicals or time to securely hold rigid the cleat 28 in fixed position to allow the teeth to move in a desired direction.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention 10 mounted along the pallet to secure a desired tooth in position. This tooth can now be acted upon with traditional orthodontic methods and not moved. A TAD 12 with a mechanical locking device or clamp 14 attached to its head 16 (not shown) and a lingual bracket 30 is secured to the roof of the mouth. One end 18 a of a curable resin rope 18 is then secured by the mechanical locking device or clamp 14 of the TAD 12. The other end 18 b is secured by the mechanical locking device 20 of a band 32 fitted to a tooth in position. The resin rope 18 is then cured with light, heat, chemical or time to rigidly secure the banded tooth in fixed position relative to the TAD 12

The curable flexible resin rope, flex fit module or FFM, all hereinafter referred to as (FFM) 18, is moldable to the anatomy of the oral cavity and has variable diameters selected to withstand biasing forces when cured. It is then adapted around the anatomy of the palate and fit to a locking device clamp 20, which is attached to the TAD 12. After curing this is complete anchorage for the bicuspid.

The FFM 18 is a new category of orthodontic appliances whose primary functions include:

i. Adaptation to the patients anatomy

ii. Replacement of current custom bent wires to connect from tad to tooth, appliance to tooth, tooth to tooth, tad to bracket, tad to band, appliance to band or bracket, band/bracket to auxiliary, tad to auxiliary, band/bracket to acrylic pad, tad to acrylic pad, appliance to acrylic pad.

iii. Elimination of lab work fabrication with one visit placement of custom made appliances

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention 10 mounted along the upper arch of the maxilla. This appliance 10 is fitted to a molar and a bicuspid via brackets 32, 33 fitted with clamps 20, 21. An FFM 18 is then adapted from one to the other and another mechanical locking device clamp 14 fitted with a lingual bracket 30 is attached to a TAD 12 secured to the roof of the mouth, holds ends 18 a, 18 b of the FFM 18 in position. It is then cured to achieve complete anchorage. The resin rope 18 is required to fit together between the attachment ends of all these appliances. Within these scanned images, the flex fitting resin is easily adapted to the anatomy of the oral cavity. In summary, the ends 18 a, 18 b, are secured by mechanical locking devices 20, 21 of tooth bands 32, 33. Once in position, the resin rope 18 is then cured with light to rigidly hold the two banded teeth in fixed position relative to the TAD 12.

FIG. 4 is a perspective of another embodiment of the invention 10 mounted to a rapid palatal expander (RPE) 34 mounted to the upper pallet of the mouth. The RPE 34 is attached to the teeth via bands 62, 64, 66, 68 fitted with clamps 52, 54, 56, 58. FFMs 36, 38, 40, 42 are used to attach the teeth to the screw activated RPE 34. Once ends 52, 54, 56, 58 are secured to clamps 52, 54, 56, 58, and ends 44, 46, 48, 50 are secured by the RPE 34, the FFMs 36, 38, 40, 42 are fit to the anatomy and clamped into place. The RPE appliance is the cured to rigidly hold the palatal expander 34 in position and ready for activation. When activated, the RPE 34 applies spreading pressure to the four teeth expanding the suture of the palate to widen the bite.

FIG. 4a is a cross section of the embodiment of the palatal expander RPE 34 of FIG. 4 showing its components 34 a, 34 b. The RPE cap 34 a is secured to the RPE base 34 b to hold the ends of resin ropes FFM 36, 38, 40, 42. FIG. 4b is a perspective view of the RPE cap 34 a shown in FIG. 4 a.

FIG. 5 shows appliance 14 is fitted with a round tube clip 22 with a tubular bore 68, which can accept arch-wires 24 or standard auxiliaries used in orthodontics.

This tube clip 22 has a round tube 68 with tubular bore 68 to slide along an archwire 24. The tube clip may have a rectangular bore 68 as shown in FIG. 6. The locking device 14 has curved hinged jaws 70, 72 held by a pin 74, which are structured to secure there between desired segments of FFMs 18 when locked by the hinged jaws 70, 72. One of the hinged jaws 70 contains an opening 76, which allows the FFM 18 to expand therein when the jaws 70, 72 are closed. When cured, the protruding segment of the resin rope 18 prevents the jaws 70, 72 from sliding along it.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another mechanical locking device 14 with a cleat 28 and slide 22 similar to that shown in FIG. 5. This clamp 14 is fitted with a cleat 28 to attach elastomeric ties. It also is fitted with a tube 68 with a square bore 68 to accept rectangular arch-wires allowing for torque to be introduced when needed. This slide 22 square hole 68 rigidly holds to the arch-wire 24 so that when it twists rotational pressure is applied to the mechanical locking device 14.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a mechanical locking device 14 affixed to the head 16 of a TAD 12. The TAD 12 has an anchoring shaft 13, which is temporarily driven or screwed into the bone to secure the TAD 12 in position.

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of another embodiment of a mechanical locking device clamp 14 without a cleat 28. This perspective view better shows the openable locking structure of the jaws 70, 72.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a mechanical locking device clamp 14 affixed to a tooth band 32.

FIG. 10 is a bottom view of an embodiment of a mechanical locking device clamp 14 with a lingual bracket 30.

FIG. 11 is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 10.

FIG. 11a is a view of a locking device clamp 14 with locking teeth in luman.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an uncured FFM 18 made of a tube 31 a filled with a resin 31 b, which can be chemically adjusted to achieve different physical characteristics and other relevant properties. The tube 31 a surrounding or encasing this resin 31 b also can be similarly modified by altering materials or width of tube 31 a to change its physical properties for the mechanical clamping or biting into via clamp requirements.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a cured FFM 31 of FIG. 12 placed in position.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of invisible removable aligner 80 adapted with the invention 10. The aligner 80 fits over tooth and bracket 79 combination easily as to not to inhibit the placement of the invisible removable aligner 80 while at the same time holding the tooth in a fixed position. The bracket 79 or bracket on band (not shown) is attached to tooth and fixed to the clamp apparatus with a solid metal connection which is part of the clamp bracket combination and is one piece. The metal portion extends past the border of the invisible removable aligner to the clamp following the anatomy of the hard and soft tissue as it becomes a clamp where it is fastened to the FFM 18. Actual bracket 79 will be larger and oval in shape than that shown in 79.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a composite flexible curable resin rope 18. FIG. 16 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 15 with a flexible structural component 82 surrounded by a ring 84 connected to the encapsulation segment 90 covered by an end cap. FIG. 16a is a top view of the end cap 92. The curable resin rope 18 has a flexible structural component 82 with a ring 84 connector encasing a curable resin encapsulation 92 shown in FIG. 17. The clip on band component 82 and collar ring 84 are one type of fastener, which become a fastener when combined with the clips on the bands shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, but many other different options are available, such as clamps, etc.

FIG. 17 is a cut-away view of the embodiment of FIG. 16 showing the curable resin component 85 containing fibers 86 impregnated with a curable resin 88 encapsulated with an encapsulation component 90 and the structural flexible component 82. The ends of the curable resin rope 18 are covered with end caps 92 creating a rope of any shape and diameter to be manipulated into a custom position within the oral cavity where the FFM is cured to hold said position and used for orthodontic holding or movement of a tooth or teeth.

FIG. 18 shows the location of cross section AA of the curable resin rope 18 shown in FIG. 19. FIG. 19 shows the fibers 86 impregnated with a curable resin 88, the encapsulation component 90 and the ring 84.

FIG. 20 illustrates two composite flexible curable resin ropes of FIG. 15 affixed to orthodontic appliances and components better shown in FIG. 21. This appliance can be attached to TADS 12 as is, or can be attached to a second identical contralateral half by means of an expansion screw and become a rapid palatal expander 34. It can be attached to bone or teeth or both in a custom fashion. Although the orthodontic appliances and components of FIG. 20 illustrate certain fasteners and components, they may be combined with any clips, brackets, and bands.

This invention 10 provides a new category of custom, single visit, comfortable appliances, which maintain rigid positioning of a desired leverage point or points between teeth and appliances. Biased mechanics and anchorage requirements are now easier and more predictable while patient compliance is reduced. Because the orthodontist can custom place his appliance exactly where he needs it the orthodontic mechanics of tooth pulling, pushing, tipping, rotating, extruding, intruding and bodily movement and alignment are simplified.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its structures, methods, or other essential characteristics as broadly described herein and claimed hereinafter. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative, and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims, rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope. 

I claim:
 1. An Orthodontic system comprising: a. at least one curable Flex Fit Module or flexible resin rope(s) (FFM) formed of a flexible curable resin material shaped to temporarily hold in a position until cured; b. at least one first anchorage elements selected from the group comprising temporary anchorage device(s) (TAD) or tooth positioning orthodontic appliance(s); c. at least one second anchorage element selected from the group comprising temporary anchorage device(s) or said tooth positioning orthodontic appliance(s) wherein said FFM is moldable within a patient's oral cavity in custom alignment, and anchored in place by securing to at least one first anchorage element at a first position of the FFM, and said at least one second anchorage element at a second position of the FFM; said FFM is then cured in place to hold its position, forming a rigid structure capable of withstanding and directing orthodontic biasing forces, and wherein each of said anchorage elements(s) is provided with anchorage structure and a fastener which connects components of the orthodontic system; said anchorage structure adapted to secure to a tooth, teeth, oral structure(s), orthodontic appliance(s) or orthodontic hardware within a patient's oral cavity to provide an anchoring point, and said fastener is adapted to secure said FFM.
 2. The Orthodontic system according to claim 1, wherein the Flex Fit Module or flexible resin rope(s) (FFM) is comprised of one or more of the following components: a curable resin component, a structural flexible component, a non structural flexible component, a curable strengthening component, a non curable strengthening component, a wrap, film, or encapsulation component, a mechanical fastener component for connectivity, a curable fastener component, an end cap component creating a rope of any shape and diameter to be manipulated into a custom position within the oral cavity where the FFM is cured in said position and is used for orthodontic holding or movement of a tooth or teeth.
 3. The Orthodontic system according to claim 1, wherein the first anchorage elements fastened or connected to the FFM comprise at least one of the following: a temporary anchorage device (TAD), bone plates, orthodontic hardware, removable orthodontic appliances, fixed orthodontic appliances, space maintenance appliances, orthodontic braces, ligatures, clear removable aligners, a second FFM, a flex fit wafer(FFW), band(s), bracket(s), custom milled, injection molded, or additively manufactured brackets or bands, mesh pads, tubes, wires, orthodontic auxiliaries, hooks, buttons, elastics, elastomerics, inter-oral and extra-oral orthodontic appliances, active tooth positioning orthodontic appliance(s), magnets, visible and non visible light emitting appliances, vibration devices, or orthodontic appliances which deliver an electrical current(s) into the oral structures.
 4. The Orthodontic system according to claim 1, wherein the second anchorage elements are fastened or connected at any point along the FFM and comprise at least one of the following: a temporary anchorage device (TAD), bone plates, orthodontic hardware, removable orthodontic appliances, fixed orthodontic appliances, space maintenance appliances, orthodontic braces, ligatures, clear removable aligners, a second FFM, a flex fit wafer, band(s), bracket(s), custom milled, injection molded, or additively manufactured brackets or bands, mesh pads, tubes, wires, orthodontic auxiliaries, hooks, buttons, elastics, elastomerics, inter-oral or extra-oral orthodontic appliances, active tooth positioning orthodontic appliance(s), magnets, visible and non visible light emitting appliances, vibration devices, or orthodontic appliance(s) which deliver an electrical current(s) into the oral structures.
 5. An Orthodontic system comprising: a. at least one curable Flex Fit Module or flexible resin rope(s) (FFM) comprised of one or more of the following components: a curable resin component, a structural flexible component, a nonstructural flexible component, a curable strengthening component, a non-curable strengthening component, a wrap, film, or encapsulation component, a mechanical fastener component for connectivity, a curable fastener component, an end cap component creating a rope of any shape and diameter to be manipulated into a custom position within the oral cavity where the FFM is cured to hold said position and used for orthodontic holding or movement of a tooth or teeth; b. at least one first anchorage element fastened or connected to the FFM comprised of one or more of the following anchorage elements: a temporary anchorage device (TAD), bone plates, orthodontic hardware, removable orthodontic appliances, fixed orthodontic appliances, space maintenance appliances, orthodontic braces, ligatures, clear removable aligners, a second FFM, a flex fit wafer(FFW), band(s), bracket(s), custom milled or additively manufactured brackets or bands, mesh pads, tubes, wires, orthodontic auxiliaries, hooks, buttons, elastics, elastomerics, inter-oral and extra-oral orthodontic appliances, active tooth positioning orthodontic appliance(s), magnets, visible and nonvisible light emitting appliances, vibration devices, appliances which deliver an electrical current(s) into the oral structures; and c. at least one second anchorage element fastened or connected at any point along the FFM or at a second end to at least one of the following anchorage elements: a temporary anchorage device (TAD), bone plates, orthodontic hardware, removable orthodontic appliances, fixed orthodontic appliances, space maintenance appliances, orthodontic braces, ligatures, clear removable aligners, a second FFM, a flex fit wafer(FFW), band(s), bracket(s), custom milled, injection molded, or additively manufactured brackets or bands, mesh pads, tubes, wires, orthodontic auxiliaries, hooks, buttons, elastics, elastomerics, inter-oral or extra-oral orthodontic appliances, active tooth positioning orthodontic appliance(s), magnets, visible and nonvisible light emitting appliances, vibration devices, appliances which deliver an electrical current(s) into the oral structures; wherein said FFM is moldable within a patient's oral cavity in custom alignment, and anchored in place by connecting to a fastener at any end or at any point along the FFM rope to at least one anchorage element at a first manipulated position of the FFM, and at another point or end fastened to a second anchorage element at a second position of the FFM; said FFM is then cured in place to hold its position, forming a rigid structure capable of withstanding and directing orthodontic biasing forces; and wherein each anchorage elements(s) are provided with a fastener which connects components of orthodontic system; said fastener is adapted to secure the FFM at an end to a tooth, teeth, oral structure or orthodontic hardware within the patient's oral cavity to allow orthodontic biasing forces to a tooth, teeth, oral structure or orthodontic hardware.
 6. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, wherein the FFM includes at least one flexible structural component which allows for manipulation, molding, contouring, and shaping of the FFM to temporarily hold a manipulated position of the uncured FFM in a first mode then once cured the flexible structural component adds strength in a cured second mode.
 7. The Orthodontic system according to claim 6, wherein the FFM flexible structural component may comprise a bendable stent like, semi-rigid mesh, or lattice like exoskeleton encasing the FFM or placed within the curable resin material of an FFM.
 8. The Orthodontic system according to claim 7, wherein the semi-rigid mesh or lattice like exoskeleton may contain perforations, cuts, or open spaces which allow light to penetrate for curing curable resin material.
 9. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, wherein the FFM's may have multiple designs along the length of a single FFM which can include a structural component of a solid design with no perforations allowing for additional strength or placement of fastener(s) and a flexible structural component which may contain perforations or cuts of any pattern(s) symmetrically or asymmetrically which score or perforate portions of the flexible structural component at varied points along the FFM's length; some perforations may be placed around the entire structural flexible component or be limited to one or more sides to allow for biasing flexibility in one or more directions, giving the FFM more flexibility or strength when loaded from a particular direction or to alter the direction the rope is likely to flex and bend before and during placement or to alter the FFM's ability to withstand biasing orthodontic forces after placement and curing of the FFM.
 10. The Orthodontic system according to claim 6, wherein the flexible moldable skeleton may comprise an endoskeleton embedded within the FFM resin(s) whose flexibility is dependent upon required usage and loads required for a given orthodontic purpose.
 11. The Orthodontic system according to claim 6, wherein the flexible structural component, fastener component(s), or the flexible non-structural component(s) may be bendable or stiff and made from one or more of the following materials that provide required force load(s) and handling requirements such as steel, stainless steel, surgical steel, bronze, brass, nickel, cadmium, aluminum, copper, tin, zinc, lead, iron, silver, vanadium, molybdenum, tungsten, magnesium, titanium, gold or any amalgamation or combination of the above with or without additives and may also be treated by annealing, hardening or softening techniques with or without heat, chemicals or other processes to create proper strength and handling properties; other materials that are used for flexible structural component(s), fastener components, and non-structural component(s) may include one or more of the following; plastics, fibers, woven fibers, carbon fibers, metal fibers, polymers, oligomers, monomers, cloth fibers, resin impregnated fibers or filaments, curable resins where materials may be injection molded, milled, stamped, laser cut, etched or made from additive manufacturing (3D printing), all materials of any combination with or without other materials can be porous, etched, scored, cut, perforated, laser cut with a symmetrical or asymmetrical grooves, lines, matrix patterns of any varied shape and may have different cross sections at points along length of a given rope or at different portions of any given rope; the non-structural or structural flexible components can be of any cross-section and of different diameters allowing the FFM to be flexible at parts and ridged at other parts or ends being able to accept fasteners for orthodontic equipment.
 12. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, wherein the FFM components have different compositions, one or more components, and the FFM may be modified by asymmetric cuts, perforations, and shapes on only one side of the FFM to achieve desired loading, strength, or bending manipulation properties in any single or combination of directions.
 13. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, wherein the FFM is of one component or multiple components layered with repeated layers of similar, identical, or different components using the same or different materials to provide an FFM of the correct strength, reinforcement, ease of manipulation, and curing properties.
 14. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, wherein the FFM has at least one end that is a fastener or allows for the attachment of a fastener(s) or connector(s) to attach to orthodontic appliances, removable aligners, retainers, intraoral and extra-oral orthodontic appliances, orthodontic hardware, braces, bands, brackets, hooks, buttons, mesh pads, orthodontic auxiliaries, orthodontic hardware, orthodontic appliance(s), and anchorage element(s) affixed to hard or soft tissue of the oral cavity.
 15. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, wherein the FFM and FFW may contain curable resin component materials may include anionic, cationic, or free radical polymerization of and are selected from the group consisting of at least one of the following: 2,6-Di-tert-butyle-4-methylphenol, Bisphenol A ethoxylate dimethacrylate, PEG 400 Extended Urethane dimethacrylate, Aliphatic Urethane Acrylate, Urethane dimethacrylate, Diurethane dimethacrylate isomers mixtures, Ethyl 4-(dimethlyamineo) benzoate, epoxies, acrylates, cyanoacrylates, silicones, polyurethanes, polyureas, oligomer acrylates, Triethylene glycol dimethacrylate, urethane methacrylate oligomers, low molecular weight trimethacrylates or other polyethylene glycol (PEG) monomers, Bisphenol A glycerolate dimethacrylate, oligomers, monomers, polymers, cyanoacrylates, elastomers, polyolefins, acrylics, plastics, silicone and photo initiators.
 16. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, wherein the FFM may include a wrap, film, or encapsulation component which may be the most exterior layer of the FFM and is a wrap or encapsulation material to assist in containing interior resin materials by encapsulating the FFM's exterior with a film, tube, encapsulation, wrapping, to cover perforations or grooves cuts holes and may be selected from materials including but not limited to a metal wrap, a fluoropolymer rubber, plastic, silicone, polymer(s), monomers, oligomers, curable resin, resin mesh material, film, paper, wax, synthetic liquid, spray material which encapsulate or encasing the curable resin component alone, multiple components or all the components of the FFM along the length of entire FFM, none of the FFM or only encapsulate any portion(s) of the length of the FFM.
 17. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, wherein the FFM includes fastener(s), connectors(s), attachment devices and orthodontic auxiliary component connecting pieces which: a. provide interfaces to connect FFM to orthodontic appliance(s), orthodontic hardware, orthodontic auxiliaries, braces, bands, brackets, cleats, tubes, hooks, buttons, wires, ligatures, teeth elastomerics, springs, pistons, mesh pads, orthodontic equipment or hardware, removable aligner(s), FFW, or tooth straightening appliances, hard or soft tissue of an oral cavity and b. create connections of the FFM to orthodontic equipment, orthodontic appliances, tooth straightening appliances, teeth, braces, springs, pistons, bands, brackets, mesh pads, ligatures, elastomerics, tubes, cleats, wires, removable aligners, FFW, orthodontic auxiliaries, hardware, hard or soft tissues of an oral cavity via mechanical, chemical, and physical or bonding means and c. include interfaces or connections for one or more FFM(s) to be connected to an single, two, or multiple items listed in 17 a and 17 b which ultimately create a custom orthodontic apparatus to hold in place, apply force, or negate orthodontic forces to oral structures.
 18. The Orthodontic system according to claim 17, wherein the fasteners or connectors are fabricated as part of orthodontic equipment, orthodontic appliances, tooth straightening appliances, braces, bands, brackets, hooks, tubes, cleats, tie wings, bondable attachments, mesh pads, elastomerics, springs, pistons, any orthodontic auxiliaries, removable aligners, FFW, and its associated hardware or appliances.
 19. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, including one or more of the following: anchoring structures, fasteners or connectors structured to secure to segments of the FFM affixed from temporary anchoring devices (TADS) and/or tooth positioning appliances, orthodontic appliances, orthodontic hardware, and/or braces, brackets, rectangular molar tubes, hooks, buttons, cleats and/or wires and/or flex fit wafers(s)FFW, flex fit module(s)FFM within the oral cavity to connect to teeth, orthodontic appliances, between components of orthodontic appliances, or to create a fixed point in space, which any orthodontic auxiliary such as a tube, hook or bracket suspended in a given point adjacent to teeth to allow the activation of a tooth or teeth by another orthodontic auxiliary like a power chain elastomeric allowing application or negation of orthodontic forces to those teeth or other teeth which are to be moved.
 20. The Orthodontic system according to claim 19, including one or more of the following orthodontic auxiliaries: springs, elastics, elastomeric ties or ligatures, and orthodontic wire, clips, hooks, buttons, brackets, molar tubes, cleats, bands, mesh pad(s), removable clear aligners, retainers, ligatures or tubes, retainers, fixed or removable appliances being fitted with fasteners or embedded into an FFM able to create or limit biasing orthodontic forces associated with the connected structures such as braces, arch wires, and tooth straightening appliances, orthodontic appliances, FFM, FFW or any orthodontic auxiliary such as pistons, elastics, elastomeric ties or ligatures, and orthodontic wire, clips, hooks, buttons, brackets, molar tubes, cleats, bands, mesh pad(s), ligatures or tubes, retainers, fixed or removable orthodontic appliances, intra or extra oral orthodontic appliances, removable clear aligners, retainers, to form an orthodontic appliance when cured to apply, limit, or stop orthodontic forces to a desired tooth or teeth and/or to the oral hard or soft tissue structures via appliances to which they attach.
 21. The Orthodontic system according to claim 19, wherein the varied connections or fasteners are constructed as one piece with the flexible structural component at any ends or at any point or points along the FFM.
 22. The Orthodontic system according to claim 19 wherein the fasteners are constructed of any metal, carbon, fibers, woven materials, plastics, alloys, metal amalgamations, and/or polymers, composites, resins, or any other needed material and fabricated through milling, additive manufacturing, injection molding or any other manufacturing process.
 23. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, wherein one or more FFM(s) have first and second ends with at least one end affixed to an orthodontic appliance, orthodontic hardware, orthodontic auxiliary, bone attached device, a TAD(s), bone implant(s), bone plate(s); and the other end connected to a tooth or teeth fitted with a band, bracket, or custom bracket fitted by a fastener and cured to hold its place and hold its position forming a rigid structure capable of withstanding and directing orthodontic forces created by the orthodontic appliance and delivered to the tooth or to the jaws which the tooth resides to create orthodontic movement upon the tooth the jaws or both, this may be repeated where a given orthodontic appliance could have more than one FFM connected to one or more teeth or connected to one or more orthodontic auxiliaries to affect one or numerous teeth or jaws for varied orthodontic or bone movements.
 24. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, wherein the fastener component is fitted onto a cap which attaches to a head of one or more TAD(s) provided with a mechanical, physical or chemical connectivity and securing the TAD to the FFM at one end.
 25. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, including one or more FFM(s) fastened to bone using a TAD(s), bone plate(s), screw, or implant(s) and at some point along the length or end of the FFM(s) fastened to a bone positioning or moving orthodontic and orthopedic orthodontic appliance structured to direct biasing forces to the bone to accomplish bone movement for the correction orthodontic skeletal or orthopedic problems of the jaws in conjunction with orthodontics.
 26. The Orthodontic system according to claim 25, including one or more FFM(s) fastened to or integrated to a spring assembly fastened to bracket(s), band(s), FFW, affixed to a tooth or groups of teeth at one end and to one or more TAD(s), bone implant(s), bone plate(s), screws or another tooth or other groupings of teeth on another end and where the at least one FFM flexible resin rope is fit then cured to selectively apply biasing pressure to desired teeth.
 27. The Orthodontic system according to claim 1, wherein the FFM is adapted to fasten to any anchorage element at one end, such as one or more TAD(s), and at the opposite end fastened to any orthodontic auxiliary, such as a cleat, then being adjusted around patient's oral anatomy to a cantilevered point in space where a malpositioned tooth is to be moved and, this malpositioned tooth fitted with any traditional orthodontic auxiliary, such as a bracket, is then activated for movement by any other desired orthodontic auxiliary, such as an elastic or spring which attaches from the FFM fastened cleat, now fastened to the TAD and cantilevered in space being held there by the cured FFM, and is attached to move the malpositioned tooth toward the area where cantilevered cleat exists, the tooth moves toward this cantilevered point in space; the custom fixed point in space appliance can be fitted with any orthodontic auxiliary and fastened to any orthodontic device to apply, hold, or negate biasing orthodontic forces and be custom fit to any part of the oral cavity.
 28. The Orthodontic system according to claim 25, wherein the fasteners comprise hinged curved locking jaws, which when said jaws are closed bite mechanically into the FFM to prevent slippage.
 29. The Orthodontic system according to claim 25, wherein fasteners allow light to pass through in sufficient amounts to cure resin(s) found within fastener device and components to which the FFM is locked or fastened onto.
 30. The Orthodontic system according to claim 22, wherein a fastener accepts more than one FFM and includes interior retention structure point(s), grooves, mesh, and etched networks physically, mechanically, or chemically bite or join an FFM.
 31. The Orthodontic system according to claim 27, including a round tube or rectangular tube or bracket designed for sliding on an arch-wire and fastened to an FMM affixed at least one anchorage element in a similar fashion the fixed point in space appliance but to an arch-wire to stop or create sliding movements along a section of arch-wire during orthodontic treatment.
 32. The Orthodontic system according to claim 31, wherein the sliding attachment central channel (tube) can be of any size or shape and may contain any attached orthodontic auxiliary and its FFM(s) and fastener(s) may be of a different size, variety and shape than other fasteners and FFM(s) with this orthodontic system.
 33. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, including a tooth positioning appliance attached to two or more opposing teeth on each side of a palatal arch of the mouth, and a palatal expander screw affixed to the positioning appliance along the palate of the maxillary arch with FFM(s) fastened to the palatal expander device so that after curing the teeth are able to be pushed apart to widen palatal sutures and/or teeth as the rapid palatal expander is activated.
 34. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, including a tooth holding or positioning appliance affixed to two or more contralateral teeth of an arch of a mouth, FFM(s) are attached via fasteners onto any orthodontic hardware such as a band or bracket and follow the lingual surfaces of teeth until the contralateral tooth is reached and a custom space maintainer to fasten to lingual of molars either in the maxillary or mandibular arches via FFM(s) is achieved.
 35. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, including a bracket, custom bracket or band attached to any surface of a tooth which is of a low profile to fit underneath a removable aligner and extends out of said removable aligner and away from said removable aligner via a low profile metal attachment which contains an integrated FFM fastener and is structured to accept an FFM which can be used to hold, apply, or negate forces to a tooth which is being manipulated by removable aligners or removable orthodontic appliances.
 36. The Orthodontic system according to claim 35, wherein the tooth anchoring bracket extends beyond the aligner/retainer to accept FFM via an FFM fastener and which may be fastened to any other part of this orthodontic system.
 37. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, wherein the anchorage elements are fasteners fabricated with, onto, or integrated with an orthodontic appliance that can physically, mechanically or chemically attach to FFM or FFW.
 38. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, wherein at least one FFM is attached to one or more TAD(s), bone plates or screws placed into bone.
 39. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, including: i. auxiliaries structured to secure to segments of FFM placed at a point in space proximate a tooth with a bracket positioned to apply intrusion, extrusion, buccal, lingual or torque movements, ii. an arch wire associated with the auxiliaries for applying biasing pressure, and iii. at least one TAD with one end of the FFM secured via the fastener, and the other end attached to the TAD to provide a fixed point in space application to affect tooth movement once cured and activated by an auxiliary.
 40. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, including a placement device which holds an auxiliary with an associated FFM fastener held in place with an arch-wire segment placed into an existing bracket or tube bonded to a tooth and held there so adjustments to said arch-wire segment can be modified to place the FFM fastener to an exact location in space for a time until the FFM is attached and the placement archwire segment is removed leaving the tube or auxiliary exactly where it is needed.
 41. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, including: a. a mechanical expander with clip(s) that accept FFM, and b. two flexible fit wafer(s) with fasteners affixed to anchorage elements on either side of a palatal suture positioned for the fasteners to secure to FFM clips of the mechanical expander to form a palatal expander.
 42. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, including: a. a palatal expander with connecting structure(s) mounted to an upper palate of the mouth, b. two opposing pairs of FFM having first and second segments moldable to the anatomy of the oral cavity with the first segments connected to the palatal expander connecting structure, and c. brackets/braces having mechanical fasteners affixed to opposing teeth on each side of the oral cavity structured to secure to second segments of the FFM.
 43. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, wherein the flexible fit wafer (FFW)module has a base of plastic or acrylic with one side scored at a depth and pattern adaptable to soft or hard tissues of the oral cavity and where those scored grooves accept a denture reline material and can be custom fit to said tissue; and on the opposite side of the reline material, which defining channels structured to accommodate segments of an FFM when inserted or with fasteners to connect to the FFM integrated into the FFW.
 44. The Orthodontic system according to claim 42, wherein the palatal expander has a base with a conformable liner along its exterior segments contacting tissues on one side and on the opposite side being connected to the palatal expander and fitting to the anatomical contours of a palate.
 45. The Orthodontic system according to claim 42, including a flex-fit wafer liner associated with the anchorage elements constructed of a material with perforations, linear or asymmetric grids or cuts on at least one side to allow for flexibility around curvatures of a palate or other anatomical contours of an oral cavity.
 46. The Orthodontic system according to claim 45, wherein the flex-fit wafer liner is constructed of a material selected from the group consisting of poly-vinyl-siloxane, resins, silicone, impression, and denture reline material.
 47. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, including: a. a bilateral lower space maintainer positioned on lingual surfaces of molars of lower anterior teeth adapted to affix first end(s) to molars and second ends of FFM flexible resin ropes by sleeves or grooves or slots embedded into a flex fit wafer, which adapts to and contacts the hard and soft tissues of the lower lingual anterior teeth, b. brackets or bands with fastener clamps placed on a lingual of mandibular first molars, and c. at least one FFM with first and second ends structured to secure the first ends to fastener clamps and second ends to a flex fit wafer bilaterally.
 48. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, an appliance including: a. a flex fit wafer with integrated fasteners structured to secure to any segment or ends of FFM(s) placed on the roof of a mouth, b. a wire(s) fitted with fasteners to attach to FFM, a bracket or a band, which can connect to the flex fit wafer, c. a wire(s) connected by fasteners to additional auxiliaries adapted to move or hold teeth when cured and connected via FFM to a flex fit wafer, d. brackets, bands with fasteners affixed to contralateral upper teeth to secure to and hold second ends of FFM in position when first ends are attached to the flex fit wafer, and e. a rapid palatal expander embedded in the flex fit wafer, with split structure to push against looped FFM when cured to spread apart the palate.
 50. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, including: a. a stainless steel wire bent as a palatal adjustment loop with ends, b. two flex fit wafers on a palate affixed to each end of the adjustment loop which contain fasteners which allow insertion of an FFM on each side, and c. two FFMs attached via the fasteners to connect to contralateral molars and the flex fit wafers, one on each side.
 51. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, including: i. Brackets or bands with a fastener(s) structured to accept FFM placed on a lingual side of both contralateral maxillary first molars or other desired teeth, ii. a flex fit wafer fit to a palate containing a fastener(s) for securing to FFM(s), and iii. FFM(s) connected from fasteners on molars to fasteners on flex fit wafers forming a maxillary Nance type appliance, when cured.
 52. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, including: a. two posterior flex fit wafers placed on each side of mandibular posterior teeth to cover occlusal surfaces including all or part of cusp tips of the lower posterior teeth, b. a flat FFM connected to the two posterior flex fit wafers via fasteners to run lingual to the anterior central incisors contacting the lower anterior teeth on their lingual surfaces, which when cured, function as a bite splint.
 53. The Orthodontic system according to claim 5, including a flat FFM connected to fasteners attached to bands on the lingual of contralateral posterior teeth, which when cured, functions as a space maintainer. 